Question 1

How is ACN connected to the neurodiversity movement?

Accepted Answer

ACN identifies as an ally of the neurodiversity movement, promoting empowerment, connection, and communication within the autism community. Our staff engages in regular training regarding implementation of neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based practices, and many of us have lived experience of having a loved one on the spectrum.

Question 2

Who leads ACN and provides its services?

Accepted Answer

ACN is led by professionals and a dedicated board, many of whom are parents or family members of neurodivergent individuals, ensuring first-hand understanding of caregivers' challenges.

Question 3

How can I get involved with ACN?

Accepted Answer

You can get involved with ACN by attending events, participating in programs, volunteering, or making a donation to support our mission.

Question 4

How can families benefit from ACN's services?

Accepted Answer

At ACN, we empower the family & caregivers to be the best providers they can be. We help guide you and help you show up for your autistic loved one. Families can also benefit from ACN's services by gaining access to early diagnosis, therapies, resources, support groups, and empowerment programs.

Question 5

Is ACN's assistance available in Spanish? (hablamos español?)

Accepted Answer

Yes, ACN provides assessments, therapies, and resources in both Spanish and English to meet the diverse needs of families.

Sí, ACN brinda evaluaciones, terapias y recursos tanto en español como en inglés para satisfacer las diversas necesidades de las familias.

Question 6

How can I support ACN's mission?

Accepted Answer

Tell your friends about us and the work we are doing. You can also support ACN's mission by making donations to help us continue providing high-quality services and resources to the autism community.

Question 7

How can I become a volunteer for ACN?

Accepted Answer

Just reach out! Send us an e-mail to info@acn-sa.org. We've got great things coming up and can always use your help!

Question 8

Does ACN collaborate with other organizations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, quite a few actually! ACN prioritizes forming partnerships and alliances with like-minded organizations to create a broader network of support for the autistic community. Reach out if you think we might be a good match for you.

Question 9

How does ACN contribute to the San Antonio community?

Accepted Answer

ACN strives to make the San Antonio community more accessible and supportive for individuals with autism and their caregivers. Our new inner west side campus is here to serve, and we welcome everyone to take part in raising the bar for autism care and inclusivity in South Texas.

Question 10

How does ACN promote autism awareness and acceptance?

Accepted Answer

ACN's programs, services, and events all work towards raising awareness and promoting acceptance of autism within the community. We encourage aunts, uncles, grandparents, teachers, and first responders, everyone to join our herd and create a circle of protection around the autistic individuals that make our world so special.

Question 11

How can I stay informed about ACN's events and programs?

Accepted Answer

You can stay informed about ACN's events and programs by attending Coffee and Connections sessions, signing up for the blog, subscribing to our emails, following us on social media, or checking out our events page.

Question 12

What is the difference between Pre-K and ECSE?

Accepted Answer

ECSE stands for Early Childhood Special Education. It is a program for children 3-6 years old that have received an educational evaluation and qualify for special education services to help transition into the school setting. Pre-K is typically provided to children 3-4 years old. Program admission is based on a variety of factors. If you are interested in your child attending either of these programs, you should speak to your local school district.

Question 13

Does my child have to be toilet-trained to go to school?

Accepted Answer

No. When a child with  developmental differences qualifies through educational testing for a classroom called Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), they do not need to be toilet-trained to attend. In fact, goals related to your child’s education will be made specifically for them based on this educational testing, and often, toilet-training is one of those goals. This means that the school staff will partner with you to help get your child toilet trained as part of their individual education plan (IEP). Please note that the ECSE classroom is different than a Pre-K 3 or Pre-K 4 classroom because it falls under the special education umbrella, and children must qualify for the program through individualized educational evaluation.

Question 14

My child has a school diagnosis, do they need a medical diagnosis as well?

Accepted Answer

Your child will benefit from having both a school diagnosis, which is called educational eligibility, and a confirmed medical diagnosis of autism. Educational eligibility will assure that your child is given the correct variety and intensity of educationally-focused therapies and supports, while a medical diagnosis helps your child gain further access to clinical supports that might be recommended. It is important to note that children do not have to wait for a medical diagnosis of autism to gain access to therapy, as even a determination of developmental or speech-language delay might open the doors for your child to begin intervention as early as possible.

Question 15

How do I know if my child has been medically diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

At Autism Community Network, you will receive direct feedback from the doctor and other members of the diagnostic team at the end of your visit. During this conversation, your child’s unique profile will be discussed at length, along with recommendations for support, and you will have ample opportunity to ask any questions you may have. When you receive the full report, this diagnosis will be stated in the document, and you will have the opportunity to schedule a follow-up session with our LCSW to review results and any further questions you may have.

Frequently asked questions.

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